2026 Season Preview: Los Angeles Angels

Nothing ever changes in Anaheim, except for no. 27.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Los Angeles Angels are gearing up for the 2026 MLB season with a familiar roster and high expectations, despite the departure of their star player Mike Trout, who wore jersey number 27.

Why it matters

The Angels have been a perennial contender in the American League West, but have struggled to make a deep playoff run in recent years. The loss of Trout, one of the best players of his generation, will be a significant challenge for the team to overcome as they aim to return to the postseason.

The details

The Angels' roster remains largely intact from the previous season, with the exception of the retirement of Mike Trout, who had been the face of the franchise for over a decade. The team will look to their remaining core players, including superstar outfielder Shohei Ohtani, to lead the way and fill the void left by Trout's departure.

  • The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in April 2026.

The players

Mike Trout

A future Hall of Fame outfielder who spent his entire 13-year MLB career with the Los Angeles Angels before retiring after the 2025 season.

Shohei Ohtani

A two-way superstar who has been the Angels' best player since the departure of Mike Trout, excelling as both a pitcher and a hitter.

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What’s next

The Angels will look to make a splash in the offseason free agent market to bolster their roster and compete for a playoff spot in 2026.

The takeaway

The Angels' success in 2026 will hinge on their ability to adapt to life without their longtime franchise player Mike Trout, as they look to Shohei Ohtani and the rest of their core to lead the team back to the postseason.